Russian spy spacecraft, capable of manipulating the paths of European satellites and potentially causing crashes, have raised concerns among security officials. European authorities suspect that two Russian space vehicles, namely Luch-1 and Luch-2, have been intercepting communications from a significant number of key satellites across Europe. This activity has intensified amidst escalating tensions between Russia and Western nations following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine by the Kremlin in 2022.
According to orbital data, Luch-2 has approached approximately 17 European satellites since its launch in March 2023. These interceptions not only compromise sensitive information transmitted by European satellites but also create the possibility for Moscow to alter their trajectories or even lead to collisions, as reported by the Financial Times.
Major General Michael Traut, head of the German military’s space command, mentioned that both satellites are suspected of engaging in signals intelligence operations. European intelligence officials have highlighted that the spacecraft strategically position themselves within narrow data beams transmitted from Earth-based stations to the satellites, making the satellites susceptible to interference or potential destruction if hostile entities capture unencrypted command data.
Last September, German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius revealed that Russian satellites were shadowing Intelsat satellites used by German armed forces and other European countries. Intelsat, a US-Luxembourg firm operating over 50 satellites for private companies and government agencies, has been under surveillance by Russian satellites.
Pistorius emphasized the vulnerability of satellite networks, stating, “Satellite networks are an Achilles heel of modern societies. Whoever attacks them can paralyse entire nations.” He underscored the significant threat posed by Russian activities in space, urging collective attention to address this issue.
Major General Paul Tedman, head of UK Space Command, disclosed that Russian forces have been targeting British military satellites on a weekly basis. He noted instances of satellite jamming by Russian satellites equipped with technology to collect information from British satellites.
The UK operates around six military satellites dedicated to communication and surveillance, equipped with counter-jamming capabilities. These developments come as Russia escalates its hybrid warfare tactics in Europe, including disruptive actions like damaging undersea cables, interfering with GPS signals, and carrying out drone incursions.
Admiral Giuseppe Cavo Dragone, chair of the NATO Military Committee, highlighted the necessity for a more proactive approach to deter Moscow from launching further hybrid attacks. The NATO alliance is urged to take a stronger stance against these threats to safeguard European security and stability.
